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Desierto de los Leones National Park

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Desierto de los Leones National Park

Desierto de los Leones National Park

Located in the Sierra de las Cruces mountains, this national park consists of high-altitude forests and mountain trails. Travelers visit this area to experience nature and engage in hiking or walking away from the urban environment of Mexico City.

Getting There

The park is situated west of the city center. Access is typically via taxi or ride-sharing services, as there is no direct metro line to the entrance. Depending on traffic conditions, the drive from downtown usually takes between 60 to 90 minutes.

Time Allocation

A visit typically requires a half-day to a full day. This allows enough time to navigate the forest trails and visit the historic monastery located within the park grounds.

When to Visit

The park is cooler than the city center due to its elevation. Visiting during the dry season avoids the heavier rains that can make trails muddy. It tends to get crowded on weekends and public holidays when local residents visit for recreation; weekdays are quieter.

Nearby Attractions

The park can be combined with other sites in the western and southern regions of the city:

  • Santa Fe (6.3km): The city's modern business district.
  • Six Flags México (10.5km): A large amusement park.
  • Xítle (11.8km): A volcanic landscape and museum.
  • Cumbres del Ajusco National Park (12.4km): Another high-altitude natural area.

Updated September 13, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

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Stays near Desierto de los Leones National Park

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Good to visit alongside

Santa Fe

Shopping & districts

Santa Fe

Santa Fe is a modern business and commercial district on the west side of Mexico City, lined with skyscrapers. At its center is Centro Santa Fe, the largest shopping mall in Latin America, making it a great place to shop.

6.3 km away

Six Flags México

Theme parks

Six Flags México

Located in the Tlalpan forest south of Mexico City, this amusement park draws 2.8 million visitors a year and is Latin America's most popular theme park. It's a great place to spend an exciting day enjoying rides and shows.

10.5 km away

Xítle

Nature

Xítle

Xitle is a volcano located within Cumbres del Ajusco National Park in the Tlalpan area of southwestern Mexico City. It has rounded foothills and a cone-shaped peak, rising to a height of about 300 meters.

11.8 km away

Cumbres del Ajusco National Park

Parks & gardens

Cumbres del Ajusco National Park

This national park near Mexico City rises to about 3,900 meters, its peaks visible from almost anywhere in the city. Pine and oak forests along with high-altitude grasslands make it ideal for hiking and enjoying nature.

12.4 km away

San Ángel

Shopping & districts

San Ángel

A historic neighborhood in southwestern Mexico City that grew up around an old monastery. Its antique buildings make it a pleasant place to wander the alleys and take in the old-world atmosphere.

12.9 km away

Cuicuilco

Heritage & monuments

Cuicuilco

This ancient archaeological site lies in the Tlalpan district of southern Mexico City, once on the southern shore of Lake Texcoco. Today it offers a glimpse of ancient civilization in the heart of a modern metropolis.

13.2 km away